One of the most anticipated films of the year is the new Disney sci-fi sequel ‘Tron: Legacy,’ which is scheduled to hit theaters on December 17, just in time for awards season. ‘Tron: Legacy’ follows the original 1982 film, ‘Tron,’ which received largely positive reviews upon its initial theatrical release, in part for its surprising use of special effects. However, ‘Tron’ initially bombed at the box office, but has since garnered a cult following. It has also been turned into a successful franchise, with Disney releasing multiple ‘Tron’ video games and comic books. The studio is now even planning a television series.
Several ‘Tron: Legacy’ stars have given interviews about the film, discussing, among other things, the story’s message, the movie’s use of special effects and what it was like working with first time director Joseph Kosinski. Lead star Jeff Bridges, who returns as video game developer Kevin Flynn, is one of the actors who has spoken about the film. He admitted that he resisted returning to the role that made him well-known among the sci-fi world. Bridges said he was worried how Disney would pull the special effects off.
But after being assured by Disney that ‘Tron: Legacy’ wouldn’t just be a special effects movie, Bridges happily got back on board as Flynn. He added that he was also persuaded by Disney’s great casting, including Garrett Hedlund, who plays his 27-year-old son Sam, and Olivia Wilde, who portrays Quorra, a warrior and Flynn’s confidant in the Tron world.
Bridges also said that he was amazed by how greatly technology has changed since the first ‘Tron.’ With the sequel, he went through the challenge of not having a traditional camera or set. Instead of using traditional cameras, Kosinski would often set up sensors to capture the actors’ movements. The camera angles would then be decided in post-production. To get used to this new system, Bridges said he reverted back to a child-like imagination of pretending he was on a real set, which was a challenge for him.
Of Bridges’ performance, Wilde said everyone will be blown away by his abilities. Not only did she feel he mixed well with the other actors, Wilde also said Bridge’s “performance makes film stay compelling.” She also said she thinks he gave a great depth to Flynn’s Tron alter-ego, Clu.
Wilde also thinks that the skin-tight, sexy costumes worn by many of the characters “are a major part of the film,” and Hedlund agreed. He pointed to the fact that everyone had to undergo hard-core training during pre-production to look good in their tight suits.
While Wilde thinks the costumes will certainly draw attention to the actors, the most important aspect of ‘Tron: Legacy’ is its message. She said the movie has a “great story of humanity and compassion.” She also feels the Tron characters will remember what it’s like to be human. Wilde also points to the movie’s political slant. The Tron dictator instilled ethnic cleansing, and wiped out everyone who’s different. But she feels the film will remind everyone that “imperfect is beautiful.”
Wilde also praised Kosinski for allowing her to develop Quorra into an intelligent hero, instead of just making her a femme fatale. The actress said she was inspired by Joan of Ark, who was also an “unlikely warrior who led an army, and was guided by her selflessness.” Wilde added that she’s proud of Quorra, as she can appeal to young girls and not just be a sex symbol.
Bridges also praised the director’s calmness and great work ethic. Kosinski “was so sure of himself, even though he was a first-time director,” the Academy Award-winning actor added. Bridges also said that Kosinski did a wonderful job of making the two movies flow.
Make sure to check out the audio files of our interviews with Jeff Bridges, Olivia Wilde, Garrett Hedlund attached.
Written by: Karen Benardello
